Drums and Tuba’s latest offering, “Mostly Ape,” is one of those albums that you either really like or really hate. Being an instrumental album, some may find it dull and boring, while others may see it as experimental and exciting.

I see the latter.

“Mostly Ape” was recorded and mixed in one full week, which is impressive for any band. But what exactly is the point of rushing an album like that? Why not take your time and enjoy the luxuries of mixing and dubbing? In some cases it is a time restraint, in others it is because of a tight budget – but not for this band.

Drums and Tuba thought it would attempt a different approach at recording an album, and do so in a manner that makes it sound as if you are listening to a live show. The result was a successful album. Most Drums and Tuba albums are filled with electronics and synthesizers galore, but not this one. The band restricts itself to the basic instruments it tends to use- onstage. Guitars, drums, a tuba, a little bit of electronics and a trumpet – that’s what you’re going to hear in “Mostly Ape.” All of this is played by three guys, Neal McKeeby, Tony Nozero and Brian Wolff. While it’s McKeeby’s guitar work and the funk-driven beats of Nozero’s drums that stand out on this record, Wolff’s brass parts only sweeten the jazzy funk sound of this trio.

The opening track, “Brain Liaters,” is one of the more complex songs of the album. The melodies gracefully float about in a slow jam, then suddenly transform into a battle hymn of heavy notes. Some of the songs on the disc will give you a sad feeling, while others will put a smile on your face.

The rolling guitar riffs and the triumphant trumpet sounds of “Clashing” sound like something your high school pep band played back in the day. At the same time, “Goose Geese” is that slow drifting tune that your high school concert band played during an all-school assembly.

“The Metrics” is a song that has been a part of Drums and Tuba’s live rotation for quite a while, and is the funkiest song on the album, with the tuba and bass combo driving the beat.

The last song, “Magoo,” is the band’s way of saying goodbye. The sad trumpet melody almost brings tears to the listener’s eyes as it signals the finale of the album. Suddenly, the rest of the instruments fight back with one last run through the world that is Drums and Tuba. For a three-man band, there is a lot going on here.

If you’re in the mood for something different, check out “Mostly Ape,” though you may not understand it. The jazz influence is noticeable and, combined with a little bit of funk, it makes for an exciting adventure in music.